Half-Day Istanbul Highlights Tour
Hotel Pickup & Tour Start
Meet your professional, English-speaking guide at your hotel or designated meeting point in the morning and begin your journey into the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Sultanahmet District, the historical heart of Istanbul.
Hagia Sophia (Ayasofya)
Begin your exploration with the magnificent Hagia Sophia, a masterpiece that has stood as the symbol of Istanbul for nearly 1,500 years.
Originally built by Emperor Justinian in 537 AD, Hagia Sophia served as the world’s largest cathedral for nearly a millennium before becoming an imperial mosque and later a museum.
Today, it remains one of the city’s most awe-inspiring monuments, famous for its vast dome, golden mosaics, and breathtaking interior.
Blue Mosque (Sultanahmet Camii)
Across from Hagia Sophia stands the Blue Mosque, one of the most iconic landmarks in the city. Built by Sultan Ahmet I in the 17th century, it is adorned with over 20,000 hand-painted blue İznik tiles that create a serene and mesmerizing atmosphere.
Your guide will explain its architectural marvels, religious significance, and how it earned its famous nickname — “The Blue Mosque.”
Hippodrome of Constantinople
Continue to the Hippodrome, once the grand stadium of Byzantine Constantinople.
This was the center of chariot races, imperial ceremonies, and political gatherings.
Today, the site is home to several ancient monuments, including:
Your guide will bring these relics to life with stories from the city’s Roman and Byzantine eras.
Grand Bazaar (Kapalıçarşı)
End your tour with a visit to the Grand Bazaar, one of the largest and oldest covered markets in the world.
Built in the 15th century, the bazaar is home to over 4,000 shops, offering handmade carpets, jewelry, spices, ceramics, and souvenirs.
Enjoy free time to browse, shop, and soak in the lively atmosphere before heading back.
Return to Hotel
Your half-day exploration concludes with a return transfer to your hotel or drop-off at Sultanahmet Square — leaving you free to enjoy the rest of your day in Istanbul at leisure.
